Sowing

• Herb plants are grown by transplantation method.
• Seeds can be sown any time of the year in India, However best time to sow is from August to December.
• Sow the seeds indoors, in seedling trays, 0.5 cm deep, preferably in coco-peat
• Seeds should germinate in 7-14 days.
• Let the germinated seedlings grow in a seedling tray for 3-4 weeks before transplantation.
• Keep the seedling tray in semi shade while the germinating seedlings grow.
• Transplant the healthy seedlings in pots or yard gardens.
• Use good quality organic potting mixture to grow herb plants. Like garden soil mix OR Pot-o-mix.

Caring

• Herb plants should be grown in a 12 inch round pot.
• Keep your herb plant in a sunny outdoor location for best flavour. The plant does not mind partial sunlight of 3-4 hours.
• Herb plants require regular watering by shower method every alternate day.
• Add a handful of vermicompost to the herb plant every 20 days.
• Keep pinching the growing tips of the plant as you harvest the foliage.
• Never harvest more than one-third of the plant at a time.

Common Problems

1. Why is my herb dying?
Always look for the early signs of any insect/fungal/ any other infections. Spay appropriate fungicides or pesticides as soon as any symptoms of such diseases are spotted. Watch out for snails and slugs.

2. Why is my herb not growing?
Herbs are cool season plants. They struggle to grow in hot climatic situations. Also waterlogging in the soil is also harmful to plants. Use well drained potting soil for growing your herbs.

3. Which type of basil is best for pesto?
The Italians are onto a good thing, with basil varieties such as the classic 'Genovese' a staple of real, home cooking. Fragrant, near-glossy dark-green leaves make the best pesto, but look out too for red and crinkle-leaved varieties and the bushy Greek basil, whose tiny leaves pack a tasty punch.